The top tech lessons for 2021...from 2020

For many years, “digital transformation” was all the rage, but it meant something different: mainly, hiring consultants or spending lots of money on technology. It was supposed to mean something more fundamental: how to future-proof companies to withstand new challenges and take advantage of new opportunities. But in 2020, companies were forced to make meaningful changes, not tweaks and time-wasting meetings, based on aligning technology with smart business strategy. Years’ worth of change happened in mere months.

What happened in 2020 should become the norm in 2021 -- ongoing thinking about how to restructure the organization, constantly adapting to an ambiguous future. Companies are investing in this.

Businesses are now relying on their tech teams to improve the customer experience. AI is becoming an everyday thing, whether companies need to hirenew staff, or improve business decision-making. It seems to be only the beginning of a larger transformation .

Throughout the year, I had some thoughts about these changes and how tech can support this transformation. Agree or disagree. Either way, I welcome your feedback.

Dealing With A Struggling Tech Project: 14 Essential Lessons. As part of the Forbes Tech Council, I shared my top tip for managing a struggling tech project.

Before You Deploy AI, Ask These Questions. The most serious challenge companies will face with AI? Does the CEO and other non-technical stakeholders understand what outcomes they are hoping to achieve for the business (with or without this new technology)? That’s one place to start.

How To Align Your Technology Team With Your Marketing Team. A lot of technical people struggle to find the relevancy of marketing for technology. That’s a huge mistake.

14 Strategies For Making Productive Use Of Consumer Data. Gathering valuable customer data is only half the story -- but how can it help your business grow?

How Business Can Use Quantum Computing Right Now (Not 10 Years Into The Future). Quantum computing helps business leaders make effective decisions and make (or save) a lot of money?

It’s Not Just The Cloud Or A Crisis Holding You Back -- It's Also Your Imagination. COVID-19 has killed many businesses. But don’t use it as a scapegoat for all of your problems. Look away from the supposed problem, to the solution: a new strategy.

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